While small auto insurers can better personalize their services, they cannot match the lower prices of their larger counterparts, according to a report by Policygenius. The average cost of car insurance among the 10 largest car insurance companies is $136 a month. "That's $683 cheaper per year than average among the companies ranked 15 to 25 by size," Policygenius said. At the same time, the average cost of car insurance for high-risk drivers is also more expensive at small insurance companies. Small insurance companies can offer rates starting at $164 for drivers with a clean record, the data showed, and $257 for drivers with an at-fault accident, $236 for drivers with a speeding ticket and $336 for drivers with a DUI. For large car insurance companies, drivers with a clean record start at $136, drivers with an at-fault accident start at $202, drivers with a speeding ticket start at $178 and drivers with a DUI start at $224. How to get cheaper insurance from a small company, according to Policygenius:
  • Compare quotes from different companies. Get quotes from at least a few options to find the most affordable rates.
  • Bundle your car insurance. Small car insurance companies usually offer a discount if you bundle your car insurance with another policy, like your home, renters, RV, or motorcycle insurance.
  • Get the right amount of coverage. Keep rates low by dropping full-coverage on older cars or not adding endorsements.
  • Avoid accidents and driving violations. Accidents, past claims and driving violations record can make your rates much more expensive.
  • Improve your credit score. Paying down your existing credit card balances and not taking out new loans can lead to lower car insurance rates.
  • Re-shop your policy before renewal. Check rates with other small insurance companies when it's time to renew.
The slideshow above illustrates the best car insurance companies of 2024 as selected by a Consumer Reports survey.  See also:
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